-Stray pets frighten and anger people who have no understanding of their misery or needs.

-Homeless cats scare away or kill birds and other wildlife in an effort to survive.

What is the right age for spay/neuter?

Early age altering (spays and neuters done between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks, before the kitten reaches puberty) has a long history of safety and effectiveness. The American Veterinary Medical Association approves the technique, and many studies have proven the safety and benefits of altering kittens between 8-16 weeks. Blue Eyes Cattery believes that early spay/neutering is in the kitten’s best interest. Young kittens heal much faster and have fewer postoperative complications.

Having the surgery early will also prevent the kitten from exhibiting the unwanted behavior, hormones, and health risks brought on by puberty (which they can reach as early as 4 months old). Many of the problems brought on by hormones/puberty are irreversible, so spaying the cat when it is older will not “fix” hormonal behaviors or health problems. Territorial and aggressive behaviors become ingrained, and many of the negative effects on their bodies are permanent.

Kittens develop at different rates, which is influenced by the number of siblings in their litter and the size of their parents. Different styles of siamese mature faster than others (appleheads will mature much quicker than wedges, for example). Rather than spaying or neutering every kitten at the same exact age regardless of development, we make sure each kitten is at least 2lbs before scheduling their surgery.